Homeschooling in Illinois
SUPPORT GROUPS
Active Natural Learners
http://www.meetup.com/Active-Natural-Learners/
This group shares laughter, advices, and friendships, learning about everything while sharing good times. Active, diverse, & inclusive, we'll have fun meetups in all of these communities, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Evanston, Glenview, Highland Park, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove, Niles, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights, Skokie, Wilmette, Wheeling, and more!

Association of Peoria Area Christian Home Educators, APACHE
Email: info@apachecentralillinois.org
http://www.apachecentralillinois.org/
The mission of APACHE, or the Association of Peoria Area Christian Home Educators, is to help parents excel in home educating their children from a Christian perspective. The vision of APACHE is threefold: To provide education and information to parents; To provide activities to assist parents in their efforts; To promote understanding and acceptance of home schooling as an excellent means of education.

Catholic Homeschoolers in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago
Email: olqpcontact@yahoo.com
http://www.eagerreaders.com/olqp Our group is Catholic in character, and consists of practicing Catholic home schooling families. A primary purpose of the group is to build up the kingdom of God on earth by raising children who are strong in the practice and knowledge of their Catholic faith. We offer support and information to parents, and provide social, academic, and spiritual opportunities for our children.

CHAMPs Homeschool Co-op
Email: champs-board@yahoogroups.com
http://www.homeschool-life.com/il/champshomeschool/
We hold classes on Mondays from September-May at the Mount Prospect Bible Church in Mount Prospect, Illinois. We join in fellowship to celebrate our childrens' gifts and achievements several more times each year, as they demonstrate their growth in music, song, art, drama and foreign language.

Christian Family Educational Co-op
Email: cfec@christianfamilyhomeschool.org
http://www.christianfamilyhomeschool.org
We are a group of Christian homeschooling families that have joined together in an Educational Co-op to help each other add to the Home School experience. Our group includes homeschooling families from Cook, DuPage, Kendall, and Will counties here in Illinois.

Christian Home Educators Coalition, CHEC
Email: info@chec.us
http://www.chec.us/
A state organization whose purpose is to preserve homeschooling liberties in the state of Illinois.

Christian Home Educators of South Chigacoland, CHESWC
http://www.freewebs.com/cheswc/
CHESWC is a semi-private homeschool support group consisting of current and prospective homeschoolers in the Chicagoland area. Membership requires participation in at least one support group activity annually (except in special circumstances approved by the moderator).

Christian Homeschool Connection
http://www.chc1.net/
Serving East Central Illinois. CHC is a Christian organization run by volunteers and guided by Christian principles. Although we are not in any way responsible for the education of your child, by joining together as Christian brothers and sisters we provide a safe and supportive environment for our families to develop friendships, learn in corporative groups and further the joys of learning in the homeschool journey.

Christian Workshops of the Fox Valley, CWF
http://www.cwfhomeschool.org/
CWF is a Christian home school co-op offering classes for homeschooled children pre-school through high school. We meet Mondays from 9:45am-2:30pm at Grace Evangelical Church in Elgin for a fall and spring semester. One parent of each family volunteers to teach at least one class which keeps our co-op reasonably priced.

The Community Co-Op
Email: info@homeschoolcommunitycoop.org
http://www.homeschoolcommunitycoop.org/
The Community Co-op for Near West Homeschoolers is a not-for-profit offering enrichment classes for homeschooling families in Chicago's near west suburbs. Once a week, we get together for a day of friends, fun and learning.

Crossroads Area Homeschoolers
http://www.cahsa.info/
Crossroads Area Home School Association represents the efforts of over 200 families near Bloomington, IL who have chosen to homeschool their children. CAHSA was formed to create a sense of community as well as to provide an easily accessible network of communication and resources which will better equip parents, enhance the experience for students, and educate local communities about the viability of homeschooling.

Evanston Home Educators, EHE
Email: eheinfo@comcast.net
http://www.evanstonhomeeducators.org/
Evanston Home Educators provides support, ideas, information and opportunities for group classes and field trips for homeschooling families in the Evanston Area. As a member of the umbrella group Illinois H.O.U.S.E. (Home Oriented Unique Schooling Experience), our group is non-sectarian, and members have many different approaches to and reasons for homeschooling.

Families of Christian Home Educators, F.O.C.H.E.
Email: FOCHE@charter.net
http://www.foche.net/
The membership of Families of Christian Home Educators is drawn mainly from Madison County, Illinois, and we generally meet in the Edwardville, Illinois area. All home schooling families are welcome to participate in our group.

Godly Influenced Fine Arts Training, G.I.F.T.
http://www.gifthomeschool.org/
G.I.F.T. is a Christian non-profit enrichment program, organized by volunteers, that offers fine arts classes to homeschoolers of all ages (pre-school through adult). Classes are taught by paid, professional teachers and are open to all homeschoolers.

Grassroots Homeschoolers
Email: info@grassrootshomeschoolers.com
http://www.grassrootshomeschoolers.com
Whether you are a seasoned homeschooler or have a peaking interest, Grassroots is here to welcome you in support of your Homeschooling choices. This non-profit organization exists for the purpose of nurturing your family in a non-denominatinal, non-sectarian capacity. We welcome all faiths, all abilities, and all educational styles. To the homeschooling community, we offer social opportunities, practical information, and learning adventures to be experienced by not only our members but the general public as well.

Hallstrom Home School Workshops
Email: paul-lois@juno.com
http://www.hallstromhomeschool.org/
The purpose of Hallstrom Home School Workshops is to provide high quality, academically challenging, spiritually uplifting classes to supplement, support, encourage, but not to replace, what is being learned at home. We are not a school and do not intend to be one. By workshop we mean “a brief, intensive educational program for a relatively small group of people in a given field that emphasizes participation in problem solving efforts.”

Hollistic Learners Homeschool Group
http://www.meetup.com/holisticlearners/
Holistic Learners Homeschool Group is a non-directed support group made up of open-minded homeschoolers of all ages, that puts our children's education safely in our own hands. This group does not only focus on the academic portion of schooling, but teaching the whole child - mind, body and soul to create life long learners.

Homeschool Resource Center
Email: hsrc@homediscipleship.org
http://www.fofchomeschool.org/
We offer homeschooling families in the area: ~ Email information loop to send current info on upcoming events, opportunities (sports, music, classes, ect.), field trips, and discounts that pertain to homeschooling, home discipleship, and families ~ Homeschool Resource Library, $10.00 membership fee per family per year ~ Periodic events ~ Used curriculum for sale ~ ICHE Convention Discount Rates ~ HSLDA Membership Discount Rate ~ Various sports teams for both boys and girls

Illinois Christian Home Educators, ICHE
Email: mailto:info@iche.org
http://www.iche.org a not-for-profit Christian organization composed of families dedicated to the success of home education in Illinois.

Illinois Classical Christian Homeschool
http://classicalconversations.com/
Our purpose is to lead the home-centered education movement by equipping parents and students with the classical tools of learning needed to discover the order and beauty of God’s creation and to inspire others to do the same.

Illinois Coalition of Non-Public Schools, ICNS
Email: gmsmit@comcast.net
http://www.icns.net/
As a coalition of non-public educational groups, we exist to support quality education for all children in the state, to be an advocate for non-public education in Illinois and to actively promote non-public school autonomy and parental rights.

Illinois Homeschoolers for Open Peaceful Education, I-H.O.P.E.
Email: illinoishope@gmail.com
http://www.illinoishope.webs.com/
I-H.O.P.E. exists to offer supplemental classes, field trips, and other enrichment activities for homeschoolers and their families. I-H.O.P.E. provides support and encouragement to all; regardless of age, race, creed, ethnicity, family composition, gender, learning disabilities, religion or lack there of, or sexual preference; believing all families have the right to educate their children in an open, peaceful manner.

Illinois HOUSE, Home Oriented Unique Schooling Experience
Email: info@illinoishouse.org
http://www.illinoishouse.org H.O.U.S.E. is a statewide network of support groups for people involved in homeschooling.

Lakeland Christian Home Educators
Email: lche@rocketmail.com
http://www.lakeland.org/
Lakeland Home Educators seeks to provide support and encouragement to home educating families, foster Christian friendships, and grow in our individual relationships with Jesus Christ, becoming like Him as we relate to our children, each other and the world. We accomplish this by meeting together monthly for fellowship with discussion of various home education issues and concerns, and offer encouragement and support to one another as mothers, email updates related to home education and events; parents-initiated field trips; group activities and events for parents and children; and educational opportunities.

Many Rivers Unschoolers
http://manyriversunschoolers1.blogspot.com/
Many Rivers Unschoolers is an inclusive unschooling support group for Will, DuPage and surrounding counties in Illinois. Our members are unschoolers. We believe that children are learning all the time, and focus more on individual learning styles and interests rather than following a set curriculum or "doing school."

Mid-Illinois Cooperative Adventures in Homeschooling, MICAH
Email: president@micahcooperative.org
http://www.micahcooperative.org/
MICAH is an inclusive, nonsectarian, homeschooling group in the greater Decatur, Illinois area. Everyone is welcome! There is no statement of faith to join MICAH, but we do expect all members to obey the Golden Rule: Treat others with respect, as you would like to be treated. We expect everyone to treat each other with love and respect and to extend grace, when necessary.

Northern Illinois Homeschool Monthly
Email: N.IL.HomeschoolMonthly@gmail.com
http://www.northernillinoishomeschoolmonthly.blogspot.com
Northern Illinois Homeschool Monthly is your news resource for Current Events, Field Trips, Co-op Classes, Private or Instructor Led Classes, Used/New Curriculum Sales, Groups, Conferences, Museum Discount Days, Nature Centers and so much more. Expand your information base and enjoy the many opportunities for homeschoolers in Northern Illinois.

Northside Unschoolers of Chicago
Email: juli@northsideunschoolers.org
http://northsideunschoolers.org
NUG activities are open to all homeschoolers, whether or not they define themselves as "unschoolers". Diversity, openmindedness, and flexibility to meet the needs of our children are of utmost importance to NUG families. NUG enjoys collaborating with other homeschool support groups in and around the city (Chicago) for classes, special projects, fieldtrips and community.

Our Lady, Queen of Peace
http://www.eagerreaders.com/olqp/
Catholic Homeschoolers in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago. ABOUT THE GROUP: Our group is Catholic in character, and consists of practicing Catholic home schooling families. A primary purpose of the group is to build up the kingdom of God on earth by raising children who are strong in the practice and knowledge of their Catholic faith. We offer support and information to parents, and provide social, academic, and spiritual opportunities for our children.

Peoria Area Homeschoolers
Email: rhonda1969@grics.net
http://friends.peoria.lib.il.us/community/pahgroup/pahgroup.html
The mission of Peoria Area Homeschoolers is to enhance the home education experience for homeschoolers of all backgrounds in the Peoria area. PAH provides an an opportunity for members to provide support, playdates, field trips, and networking opportunities to each other.

Phenomenal Homeschool
http://www.phenomenalhomeschool.org/
Phenomenal Homeschool is a homeschool co-op located in Chicago, IL. Our children learn together in a safe, nurturing environment complete with a specialized teacher.

Saturday Morning Physics
http://smp.fnal.gov/
The Saturday Morning Physics program is a free of charge series of nine lectures and tour visits given by Fermilab scientists with the purpose of further the understanding and appreciation of modern physics among high school students. The lectures are aimed at high school students without any previous scientific knowledge. This program is given three times a year in so called sessions. The program is open to any student who is in a public, private, or parochial high school or in a home schooled program.

Schaumburg H.O.U.S.E.
http://www.schaumburghouse.org/
Schaumburg H.O.U.S.E. is a Chapter of Illinois H.O.U.S.E., a nonsectarian group of homeschoolers that supports all educational philosophies and family lifestyles. We facilitate activities, classes, cultural events, and general gatherings to help our children in making friends and being a part of a larger community. We offer ongoing activities throughout the year for children of all ages.

St. Clair County Christian Home Educators
Email: kinghill@sbcglobal.net
http://www.sccche.org
Our goal is to be a support for the families in the St. Clair County Christian Home Educators. We engage speakers for our monthly meetings once each quarter, at least four times during the homeschool year, to encourage, educate parents, and assist new homeschoolers in their personal endeavor to answer God's call on their family to train up their children in the Lord.

Westside H.O.U.S.E.
http://www.housewestside.org/
Illinois H.O.U.S.E. (Home Oriented Unique Schooling Experience) is an inclusive, non-sectarian network of homeschooling support groups. The Westside House chapter includes families from Chicago and the western suburbs. Our membership comes from a wide geographic area around Chicago and its suburbs including Berwyn, Brookfield, Burr Ridge, Cicero, Downers Grove, Elgin Forest Park, Franklin Park, LaGrange, Oak Park, Oak Lawn, Riverside, and Westmont. Anyone from the surrounding area might find our group a worthwhile venture.

Wild Indigo Life Learners, WILL
http://willunschoolers.blogspot.com/
Wild Indigo Life Learners is made up of unschooling families who have chosen to be facilitators in the life learning journey of their children. We are based in the Naperville area yet draw from many communities in the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. We are currently planning field trips and other organized events on Wednesdays.

EMAIL LISTS
Central Illinois Attachment Parenting Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CentralILAPHomeschoolers/
We are a group of attachment parents who choose to homeschool our children. We reside in Central Illinois. We practice different aspects of attachment parenting. Most importantly, we choose to listen to and respect our children by following their cues and meeting their needs with an emphasis on raising happy children first and foremost!

Central Illinois Secular Families
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CISecularFamilies/
We have been searching for non-religious social activities, but have found almost nothing for secular families in many central Illinois communities (Decatur, Clinton, Bloomington, Normal, Forsyth, Lincoln, etc. IL). We also proudly homeschool our children and would enjoy meeting other homeschoolers and their supporters. Activities in the future: reading club, science club, play groups ( Weldon Springs, Fairview Park, Miller Park, etc.), paddling / kayak / canoe, hiking, etc.

The Challengers 4-h Club of Kane County Illinois
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/thechallengers4-hclub/
The Challengers 4-H Club is a part of Kane County 4-H in Illinois. We are made up of primarily homeschoolers, but all are welcome to attend our meetings. We ask that parents attend the meetings with their youth or find another adult that can be responsible for them.

Chicago Homeschool Teens
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChicagoHT/
ChicagoHT is a place where homeschooled teens in northern Illinois can connect to each other, network, and plan get-togethers. Most of our teenage homeschoolers also belong to one or more of the HOUSE homeschool groups or unschooling groups in the Chicago area, with members coming from, but not limited to, Cook, Will, DuPage, Lake, McHenry, Kendall, and Kane county homeschooling families.

Chicagoland Homeschoolers Inclusively Learning and Discovering, CHILD
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CHILD_Illinois/
A group for families in the western suburbs (primarily DuPage county) of Chicago who seek to connect with others for support, ideas, and enjoyment. The group is secular and inclusive, with children currently ranging in age from infants to teens. Playgroups and meet-ups will typically be on Fridays within the general areas of Elmhurst (NE border) and Woodridge (SW border). However, as the group strives to be member-driven, dates and locations may vary.

Chicagoland Homeschoolers Inclusive Play and Support, CHIPS
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CHIPS_Illinois/
CHIPS_Illinois (Chicagoland Homeschoolers Inclusive Play & Support) is an inclusive, secular group for all types of homeschooling families. Our families come from Plainfield, Naperville, Aurora, Joliet, Romeoville, Downers Grove, and other Chicago area suburbs. Our goal is to provide opportunities for social interaction and creative play for our children as well as a place for parents of different homeschool philosophies to meet and interact.

C.H.I.V.A.L.R.Y. Homeschool
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/chivalryhomeschool/
Parent's support group for Illinois Catholic home schooling in the Bolingbrook, Naperville, Plainfield area. C.H.I.V.A.L.R.Y. - Catholic, Homeschoolers, Instilling, Values, Academics, Life skills and Respect in our Youth.

Christian Chicago Area Relaxed Educators, CCARE
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CCARE/
We are a Christian group of homeschoolers living in the Chicago area who are committed to a lifestyle of learning in a relaxed way. Our group provides support for parents, group activities for kids, and much more. We hope to help Christian unschoolers and relaxed homeschoolers have confidence in themselves, build relationships within a Christian context, and offer opportunities for the children to engage in meaningful and fun group experiences.

Decatur Area Homeschool Network
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Decatur_hs_network/
The Decatur Area Homeschool Network is a dedicated group of homeschool families from the Greater Decatur Illinois area. Members of this network share homeschool information and available community resources for their homeschooled students and families.

DeKalb H.O.U.S.E.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DeKalb_HOUSE/
H.O.U.S.E. is an acronym for Home Oriented Unique Schooling Experience, an Illinois network of support groups for homeschoolers. The purpose of this network is to support families in exercising their right to homeschool regardless of age, color, creed, ethnic background, family composition, financial condition, gender, learning disabilities, race, religion (or lack thereof), sexual preference, or special education needs. We require a $3.00 annual fee for membership. We would also ask families to attend a couple of group functions (monthly meeting, field trip, or group event)to have access to the message board.

DuPage Attachment Parenting Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dupageaphomeschool/
DuPage county Illinois and surrounding areas, homeschooling, unschooling, eclectic schoolers. This group was started as an extension of the DuPage Attachment Parenting group for the families who homeschool and have children who are of school age.

Future Homeschoolers of Chicago
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/futurehomeschoolersofchicago/
This group is for families in or near Chicago who plan to homeschool their children who are currently ages 0-4yrs.

Homeschoolers Out and About
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Home_Schoolers_out_and_about/
Official Site of "Lark in Park". Naperville Area Christian Home Schoolers looking for informal ways to meet and fellowship with other homeschoolers. Consistant park date weather permitting and possibly more activies in future.

Homeschool Illinois
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/homeschool-Illinois
This list is for the discussion of topics related to homeschooling in Illinois.

Homeschooling Illinois
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/homeschoolillinois/
This is a group for IL Homeschoolers. We respect all people and are a diverse group.

HOPE Homeschool Group
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HOPE_homeschool_group_Illinois/
HOPE is a support group for Christian homeschoolers primarily serving the northside of Chicago and the near north suburbs. This is a group only for members of the HOPE support group to communicate with each other.

Illiana Homeschool Society
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/illianahomeschool/
We are a group of homeschool families in NW IN and NE IL joining together to promote socialization and education. We welcome ALL families.

Illinois Homeschool
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Illinoishomeschool
This is a mailing list for people who home schooling or are thinking of homeschooling in Illinois. Kids and Parents alike! Here you can exchange ideas! support each other! give links for school stuff! just talk including, scripture, God, church, parents, kids, home cleaning, lessons and curriculum, on-line courses, and web sites.

Illinois Homeschool Announce List
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILHSannounce
This list is for all Illinois homeschoolers, or those who are interested in homeschooling in Illinois. This list is intended for announcements of area activities, field trips, speakers, group meetings, and legal information discussions.

Illinois Homeschool Freedom Watch
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILHomeschoolFreedomWatch/ This list exists to network ALL homeschoolers interested in Illinois homeschool laws, homeschooling legal issues, court cases involving homeschoolers and homeschooling legislative issues in Illinois, regardless of any group affiliation.

Illinois Homeschool Gifted, IL HS Gifted
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILHSGifted/
An all inclusive communication loop and supportive network for Illinois families who are homeschooling their highly, exceptionally, or profoundly gifted children. This group is a forum for people to give and receive ideas, information, and support regarding teaching methods and parenting issues. It can also be a place where homeschoolers connect/meet other parents of gifted children in their specific area in illinois.

Illinois Homeschool Happenings
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILHSHappenings/
This list is for posting any and all EVENTS for, about or of interest to homeschoolers in the entire state of Illinois including but not limited to: field trips, classes, concerts, plays, parties, meetings, lectures, discussion groups, play dates and homeschool group curriculum/used book sales, etc.

Illinois Homeschools
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILHomeschools
This list is for Christian Families who plan to or are currently homeschooling in the state of Illinois.

Illinois Secular Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILSecularHomeschoolers/
This is a group for homeschool families that are secular in their homeschooling. Secular in this group can mean a few things: 1) You follow no particular religion and/or 2) You choose not to bring religion into your curriculum or every conversation that you have.

Jasper County Christian Home Educators
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jcche/
This is a group for Christian Homeschoolers in Jasper County Illinois. Please feel free to discuss anything regarding homeschooling and legal issues that may confront us.

Knox County Homeschool Group
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/knoxhomeschoolgroup/
This is a group for Knox County IL Homeschoolers. We respect all people and are a diverse group. This group is for communicating events and activities along with providing support while building relationships with fellow home schoolers.

Lake County Homeschool Teen/Pre-teen
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LakeCountyHomeschoolTeen_Pre-teen/
This is a group of homeschool families with teens and preteens. We host group activities for the homeschoolers that include Literature Group, hikes and Teen Night. We are a secular group that supports families in Northeastern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin.

Lombard Home Educators
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LombardHomeEducators/
This is a networking/support group for home educating families in Lombard, IL. Any homeschooling family in Lombard, Illinois is welcome to join.

Many Rivers Unschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Many_Rivers_Unschoolers/
Many Rivers Unschoolers is an inclusive unschooling support group for Will, DuPage and surrounding counties in Illinois. We are currently meeting on Tuesdays from 11 - 3 at Christ Community Church in Plainfield, IL. We welcome all ages from infant to adult. Our members are unschoolers. We believe that children are learning all the time, and focus more on individual learning styles and interests rather than following a set curriculum or "doing school."

Marion Area Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/marionareahomeschoolers/
This group was created for Marion, IL, and surrounding area families. Post about field trips, ideas, local happenings, and to buy/sell/trade curriculum. You may also share personal prayer requests and any problems you are having with homeschooling issues or just to chat.

McHenry County Homeschool Happenings
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/McHenry_Co_Homeschool_Happenings
The homeschooling community of McHenry County, IL is widespread and diverse. This e-group has been created to help all of us in McHenry County stay in touch with one another, share our group events with one another, and help each other find the local resources we need to succeed beyond our wildest dreams. This list is for networking and announcements about upcoming local homeschooling related events.

McHenry County Unschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/McUnschooling/
This is a group for families following an unschooling homeschooling philosophy to find and connect with other families in the McHenry County IL area. Families can share ideas and topics and offer support to each other in a respectful and understanding way.

Metro-East Secular Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Metro-East_Secular_Homeschoolers/
We are a group of friends in the Metro East area that get together for playdates, fieldtrips and other activities. We meet in the Illinois Metro East area of St. Louis including the towns of Glen Carbon, Edwardsville, Troy, Fairview Heights, and O’Fallon.

Muslim Homeschoolers of Greater Chicago
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MHSGC
This group is designed to facilitate communication between members of our homeschool group.

Near Park Oak Homeschoolers, Nearparkers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nearparkersIL/
A group only for homeschoolers who live in near Oak Park Illinois: Forest Park, River Forest, Berwyn, Near Chicago, etc. We provide local contact and events, information, support and encouragement to Oak Park area families with children ages 0 to 18 who homeschool or are interested in homeschooling.

Northern Illinois Secular Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NISecularHomeschoolers/
We are a homeschool group local to DeKalb Illinois and the surrounding area. Our group welcomes members who choose to homeschool for reasons other than religious conviction. Our group has been meeting since August of 2009. I try to set up weekly activities for the kids, and welcome any suggestions.

Northside Unschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NorthsideUnschoolers
A group only for participants of this Chicago based homeschooling group. We request that families attend a few of the group's events before joining the email list. We provide information, support and encouragement to Chicago area families with children ages 0 to 18 who unschool or are interested in unschooling. We also provide a variety of activities, classes and events to all interested homeschoolers.

Off The Beaten Path http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OffTheBeatenPath
Off the Beaten Path is an inclusive support network of unschooling families based in Lake County, Illinois. OTBP’s mission is to provide a means for local unschoolers, and those wanting to learn more about interest-led learning, to connect and support one another.

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Homeschool Association http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OurLadyOfMtCarmel
Networking for Catholic homeschoolers who live in Northern Indiana and Illinois.

Peoria Area Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PeoriaAreaHomeschoolers/
The mission of Peoria Area Homeschoolers is to enhance the home education experience for homeschooling parent/guardians of all backgrounds in the Peoria area. PAH provides an opportunity for members to provide support, playdates, field trips, and networking opportunities to each other.

Quad City Area Secular Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/QCA_Secular_Homeschoolers/
Welcome to the email group created to facilitate networking, event planning, and friendships between Quad City area homeschooling families. Those of all faiths are encouraged to join and enjoy getting to know other local homeschoolers.

Salve Regina, Chicago Area Catholic Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SalveRegina
The PURPOSE of this list is for Chicago area Catholic homeschoolers to exchange information of use to others in the area.

Southeast Missouri Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/southeastmissourihomeschoolers/
This group is for homeschool families in the Cape Girardeau, Missouri area and surrounding areas in Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois. This group is also open to all homeschoolers no matter where they may reside. This group will allow Christian homeschool families to hear about events and to share fellowship with other homeschool families.

Springfield Illinois Homeschool Loop
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HSSpringfieldIL/
This is a loop for homeschoolers to post all the events, activities, discounts, and other things of interest to homeschoolers in the central Illinois area, specifically focused around the Springfield area.

St. Claire and Madison County Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/StClairMadisonHomeschoolers/
This is a mailing list for people who homeschool or are thinking of homeschooling in St. Clair and Madison Counties (and surrounding close areas)in Illinois. Here you can exchange ideas, give links, support each other with curriculum, homeschool, general talk, scriptures or encouragment!

St. Louis Homeschool Events
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Stlmohsevents/
A listing of events and classes open to all homeschooling families in the Greater St. Louis, Missouri area. This list is open to homeschoolers from all backgrounds, religious beliefs and homeschooling methodologies. St Louis, Missouri, St Charles, Franklin, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, St. Clair, Illinois areas included.

Supporting Homeschoolers of Northwest Illinois, SHONI
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/shoni/
This is a homeschool group for Northwestern Illinois. Including, but never limited to, Jo Daviess, Carroll, and Stephenson counties. EVERYONE is welcome, regardless of your philosophy or religion. Join us for weekly park days. You are included: Apple River, Elizabeth, Hanover, Freeport, Galena, Lanark, Lena, Mount Carroll, Pearl City, Scales Mound, Savanna, Stockton, Warren, Winslow.

Three Rivers Homeschool Network
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/3riversnetwork
The Three Rivers Homeschool list functions to connect homeschooling families and their support groups in western Kentucky, southern Illinois, and northwest Tennessee. Its purpose is to keep families aware of the opportunities for support and enrichment available within a roughly 60 mile radius of Paducah, KY. This is a mailing list, not an organization, but we welcome posts from local homeschool organizations. Meeting announcements, field trip and activity opportunities, workshops and conferences, and homeschool related for-sale items will be welcome.

Tri-State Secular Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tri-state_secular_homeschoolers/
Welcome to the email group created to facilitate networking, event planning, and friendships between Dubuque, IA, Galena, IL, and Platteville, WI area homeschooling families. Those of all faiths (or none!) are encouraged to join and enjoy getting to know other local homeschoolers.

Unschool Illinois
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/unschool-illinois/
This is an all inclusive group for unschoolers in Illinois. Unschooling is a philosopy of education that focuses on child directed learning. This is a wonderful place for homeschoolers, unschoolers and the unschool curious to gather and share ideas, support and resources. Anyone with an intrest in Unschooling is welcome to join.

Unschooling in Illinois
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Unschooling-in-IL
We are homeschooling parents in Illinois, who have chosen the method of "Unschooling" as the means to teach our children. Unschooling has many definitions, such as "Child-led learning" and "learning from life's experiences." But no matter how you define it, we'll discuss it here.

Warren County Area Homeschoolers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WarrenCountyAreaHomeschoolers/
We are an inclusive group of families which welcomes many different styles of homeschooling and one that welcomes members from all religions, backgrounds, and cultures. Our focus is to enrich, provide mutual support and social & educational activities for our children. Our purpose is to support the child in the life long learning process, while having respect for each family's educational style regardless of religious or political views.

Wild Indigo Life Learners
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wildindigolifelearners/
Wild Indigo Life Learners is made up of unschooling families who have chosen to be facilitators in the life learning journey of their children. We are based in the Naperville area yet draw from many communities in the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. We are currently planning field trips and other organized events on Wednesdays.

Wisconsin TAG Homeschooling Forum
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wi-TAGhomeschooling/

This group was formed to support Wisconsin parents who are currently homeschooling their "talented and gifted" (TAG) children, or considering the option of gifted homeschooling. We also welcome parents from neighboring Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois who have interest in gifted homeschool options.

The Academy of Communications & Technology
4319 W. Washington Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60624
Phone: 773-626-4200
http://www.actcharter.org
Located in West Garfield Park, the Academy of Communications and Technology Charter School opened its doors to students in 1997 as an independent public school. We exist to prepare inner city students who wish to attend and complete college. Our program emphasizes the communication arts and technological literacy. ACT students live in and around West Garfield Park, a neighborhood chronically plagued with gangs, drugs, unemployment, violence and other symptoms of poverty. ACT believes that all of the school’s stakeholders - teachers, parents, students and community members - can become partners in building a safe haven for learning and growth. ACT currently serves 300 students in grades 6 – 12.

Chicago International Charter School - Bucktown Campus
2235 N. Hamilton Street
Chicago, Illinois 60647
Phone: 773-645-3321
Email: tivy@aqs.org
http://www.cics-bucktown.org
We believe in the innate capacity of every child to succeed. This capacity is fostered through high academic and personal standards, respectful and orderly schools, competent and dedicated faculty and staff, involved and caring parents and administrative and management leadership creating a climate and culture of continuous improvement and a commitment to high and measurable standards of excellence.

Chicago International Charter School - Prairie Campus
11530 S. Prairie
Chicago, Illinois 60628
Phone: 773-928-0480
Email: cjackson@aqs.org
http://www.cics-prairie.org
We believe in the innate capacity of every child to succeed. This capacity must be fostered through high academic and personal standards, respectful and orderly schools, competent and caring faculty and staff, involved and caring parents, and administrative and management leadership which fosters a climate and culture of continuous improvement and a commitment to high and measurable standards of excellence.

Chicago International Charter School - Washington Park Campus
6105 S. Michigan
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-324-3300
Fax: 773-324-3302
Email: webmaster@aqs.org
http://www.cics-washingtonpark.org
We believe in the innate capacity of every child to succeed. This capacity must be fostered through high academic and personal standards, respectful and orderly schools, competent and caring faculty and staff, involved and caring parents, and administrative and management leadership which fosters a climate and culture of continuous improvement and a commitment to high and measurable standards of excellence.

Illinois State Board of Education Charter Schools
100 N. 1st Street
Springfield, IL 62777
Phone: 866-262-6663
Email: rloman@isbe.net
Email: jprice@isbe.net
http://www.isbe.state.il.us/charter
Charter school information from the Illinois State Board of Eduation.

KIPP Ascend Charter School
4820 W. Walton Street – 3rd Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60651
Phone: 773-261-9972
Fax: 773-261-9975
Email: info@kippascend.org
http://www.kippascend.org
A new, college preparatory middle school located in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. As a charter school, we offer a free, public education to any student who chooses to enroll. Our mission is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and character traits necessary to succeed in top-quality high schools, universities, and the competitive world beyond.

North Kenwood/Oakland Charter School
1119 E. 46th Street
Chicago, IL 60653
Phone: 773-536-2399
Email: s-beards@charter.uchicago.edu
http://www.uei-schools.org/nko/site/default.asp
An elementary school chartered by the Center for School Improvement at the University of Chicago.

Perspectives Charter School
1930 S. Archer Ave.
Chicago, IL 60616
Phone: 312-225-7400
Fax: 312-225-7411
Email: info@perspectivescs.org
http://www.perspectivescs.org
Perspectives Charter School is dedicated to the mission of providing urban students with a rigorous and relevant education that will prepare them for life in a changing and competitive world. Perspectives will help students further become intellectually reflective, caring and ethical people engaged in a meaningful life.

Prairie Crossing Charter School
1571 Jones Point Road
Grayslake, IL 60030
Phone: 847-543-9722
Fax: 847-543-9744
Email: pccsoffice@pccs.lake.k12.il.us
http://www.pccs.lake.k12.il.us
Imagine a small school, grouped by multi-ages, nestled in the prairie, with a goal to instill life long learning in all its students. Add to this a warm, caring, personal atmosphere, and the use of a variety of people for teaching: students, parents, experts in a subject, and classroom staff. Mix in the ability to use both the indoors and outdoors as one large classroom, and the integration of the underlying theme of environmental education. This is Prairie Crossing Charter School.

Springfield Ball Charter School
2530 East Ash Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: 217-525-3275
Fax: 217-525-3316
Email: andyjolly@springfield.k12.il.us
http://www.springfield.k12.il.us/schools/ballcharter/
The mission of the Springfield Ball Charter School is the creation of a safe, nurturing environment which fosters learning through the development of high quality, research-based academic programs, attention to the learning needs of individual children, and the involvement of parents in their child’s education.

If you would like your group or organization listed here, please email me with your info and I'll add it in.